Something I need to say is that I mostly drive it around a University area, there are stop signs practically every block and I have to drive slow (20MPH) mostly all the time. Do you think if this has anything to do with that?

Thanks!!

Ana

There is your answer, short trips that never bring the car up to operating temperature affect the milage as well as longevity of the vehicle.

Gerhard

 

Welcome to the forum. I have to agree with Gerhard, your frequent stops and very short commute is killing your mileage.

 

The above posters are correct. I'd still make sure your tires are properly inflated to the specs inside the driver's door. Low air pressure isn't safe and kills mileage and tires.

 

AnaMart,
My commute is short, about 8 - 10 kms / 5-6 miles each way. The car certainly does not get up to operating temperature often enough, and that does affect fuel economy. Remember that both oil and coolant need to be fully warm (or hot) for the engine to be at normal operating temperature. I don't get the normal commuting mileage that others might get. I'm sure that avg. economy for a 20 mile commute will be better than for a 5 mile commute. Starting and stopping and driving 20 mph won't help either.

Can you get out for a 2 or 3 hour drive at higher and more consistent speeds? That would be an worthwhile trial.

Certainly checking the oil, and having it changed especially if it seems dark, is a good idea.

 

Auto or stick?

 

Ditto above comments. Fill it up, take, a long highway drive.

 

How many miles? A tune up could net you a few extra MPGs.

 

First, how are you calculating your mileage? Are you using the EVIC or calculating with your own method? The EVIC is most accurate because it calculates with all the variables. Your ECM "learns" your driving habits and does the best it can. I suggest disconnecting the negative battery cable for 5 minutes and starting over. Engine temperature and distance are certainly important factors, but the most poinient one is the speed. You never get over 20 the car never sees overdrive and is not operating at it's most efficient speed. Add to that frequent stops, extended idle time and the figure drops sharply.

On the maintenance side, oil change, air filter, air pressure in the tires all have an effect on gas mileage.

My daughters 500 Sport auto gets 40 on the hwy as advertised.
My wife's 500L DDCT gets 33 on the hwy if you keep it under 80 and on cruise. Thats with a full load.
My Abarth 5 speed manual gets 32 on the hwy but forget the city, I got to drive like a mad man to keep from getting run over so city might be around 19-22 mpg.

Best regards